Home Values & Return On Investment

Replacement windows & home values — for homeowners pondering new windows, it’s an important consideration. According to a 2006 survey conducted by Remodeling Magazine of real estate agents, brokers and home appraisers, replacement windows was considered the number one remodeling project with the biggest bang for the buck. It scored even higher than renovating kitchens and bathrooms.

“At that time, it was estimated that homeowners could expect to recoup about 89% of the cost of the replacement window project. With the increased focus on energy efficiency in recent times, window replacement continues to remain as a top home renovation project with a high return on investment (ROI).”

Replacement Values And Home Values

The increased home value of replacing your windows is about more than just getting a higher resale price when it’s time to sell. And it’s about more than the exact ROI figures. Replacements can also increases the value of your home while you are living in it in more subtle ways.

Increased Home Equity

For one, if you currently have a home equity line of credit or are looking to get one, the appraisal value of your home will increase, giving you access to more equity in your home against which to borrow money.

Lower Utility Bills

You will also save money on your utility bills. Most homeowners can expect to save around 20% of their initial heating and cooling costs. This savings will start to offset a portion of the replacement window prices beginning with your very first bill.

More Comfort And Enjoyment

They will certainly add to the comfort and enjoyment of your home. While this doesn’t constitute an increase in home values that can be calculated in dollars and cents, it is still by no means one to be ignored. New windows generally look better, keep your home more comfortable, are better at blocking out noise, and are usually easier to clean and maintain.

Buyers Want Newer

It may not be easy to come up with an exact figure for how much replacement windows increase the resale value of your home. But, it is worth considering that nonetheless, many home buyers look for homes that have newer and more efficient windows. This fact alone can make your home easier to sell than the house down the block.

Looks Are Everything When It’s Time To Sell

You may be used to your old, unattractive aluminum windows because they’ve always been there. You probably don’t even notice details like that on your home anymore. But, keep in mind that prospective home buyers look at every detail when looking for a new home. Ugly or inefficient windows can be enough to make them turn and walk the other way.

First Impressions Make A Difference

When you are selling your home, you want your home to make a good first impression. Curb appeal and first impressions are very important to increasing the desirability of your home. Your home’s windows are a big part of that first impression, so if they look good, so does the rest of your home.

Quality Is Key

There are many options to consider, and of course you have to figure out what options are most important to you while keeping within your budget. You should keep an eye on quality, however, when buying replacements. Potential buyers notice quality and will not be impressed by how new your windows are if they are a relatively inferior product or are not installed well. It is worth spending the extra money to select high quality wood or vinyl windows and to have a professional install them properly.

New Helps Promote Your Home’s Features

While it’s great to include information in a home’s listing that the windows are new, it’s even better to get realtors to promote the value that the replacements offer. Make them aware of the quality and savings that come with energy efficient models and lines and comfort, the reduced interior noise, the lower maintenance requirements, and the added aesthetic value of the windows. If you opt for high end brands or touches, such as coatings, fills or other features that can’t easily be seen, make sure that realtors know that info so they can pass it on to potential buyers.